Christensen Headed To CT For Conditioning

In an attempt to get Erik Christensen back playing hockey, the Rangers have assigned him to the CT Whale for a conditioning assignment, per Katie Strang. Christensen has been a healthy scratch for 20 games this season, including the past 10 games. Ironically, the last time he dressed was against the Phoenix Coyotes on December 17, the team the Rangers just beat last night.

Christensen is not being straight up demoted to the AHL, like Sean Avery was earlier this month. Christensen accepted a conditioning assignment, which means he will be back with the team once it is over. Christensen was not placed on waivers, and this is not a permanent move, yet.

New York, January 11, 2011 – New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that forward Erik Christensen has been assigned to the Connecticut Whale of the American Hockey League (AHL) on a conditioning stint.

Christensen, 28, has registered one goal and four assists for five points in 20 games this season. He recorded four points (one goal, three assists) in a three-game span from October 31 vs. San Jose to November 5 vs. Montreal. Christensen is tied for third in the NHL all-time in shootout game-deciding goals (11), ranks ninth in shootout goals (24) and ranks fifth in shootout shooting percentage (52.2%) among active skaters with at least 10 shootout attempts. He has not dressed in 20 games this season, including each of the last 10 contests. His last appearance was on December 17 at Phoenix.

The Edmonton, Alberta native was acquired by the Rangers on December 2, 2009, claiming him off waivers from Anaheim. He was originally selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins as a third round choice, 69th overall, in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.